Why Young People Are Buying Gadgets on EMI—Is It Really Worth It?

A new iPhone. A top-end laptop. A gaming console. A smartwatch. A washing machine. A television set…and so on.

For numerous young people in India nowadays, buying a costly gadget does not imply paying the entire amount in advance.
Gadgets on EMI have become increasingly popular because they allow consumers to spread a large purchase across smaller monthly installments.

The recent launch of Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro in India is an excellent example of that.

Apple’s latest iPhone 18 Pro starts at ₹1,64,900 in India, with Apple currently offering up to six months of no-cost EMI on eligible purchases.Buyers with eligibility can choose from no-cost EMI plans, making the price of the expensive smartphone easier with the help of monthly installments.

Is purchasing a gadget on EMI truly advantageous?

The response varies based on the motives behind the purchase, the cost involved, and the ability to pay EMIs comfortably.

The iPhone EMI trend reflects the changing buying pattern.

According to Counterpoint Research’s Monthly Smartphone Financing Tracker, smartphone financing—including NBFC financing, credit-card EMI and debit-card EMI—is expected to account for 42% of total smartphone sales in India in 2026, up from 35% in 2025.

This suggests that financing is gaining significance in India’s smartphone industry.

Moreover, the trend is not limited to iPhones.

People use EMI for smartphones, laptops, televisions, gaming gadgets, and so on.

Why are youngsters purchasing gadgets through EMI?

1. Availability of pricey items

   Even though a smartphone costing over ₹1 lakh can be challenging to buy in one go, purchasing it through EMI ensures that the payment is divided into several months.

2. Monthly expense

   For people, ₹5,000–₹10,000 monthly payments are easier to manage than paying a huge amount upfront.

3. Tech nowadays is necessary

   Laptops and smartphones are not only for amusement these days. Rather, they are useful in education, business, communication, and personal growth.

4. Simplified online shopping

   Youngsters feel comfortable making purchases online since they are already familiar with the internet.

5. Growing demand for premium gadgets 

   More and more people want to buy expensive gadgets, and EMI is a possible solution to this situation.

The Benefits of Purchasing Gadgets on EMI

EMI doesn’t have to mean bad.

✔ Lower upfront price

The full amount doesn’t have to be paid at once; instead, payments can be stretched over time.

✔ Better cash management

If a buyer has a stable income and sufficient savings, EMI makes it easier for them to manage the purchased item.

✔ Access to useful devices

A laptop used at work, school, or a freelance job could generate income for an individual.

✔ No-cost EMI options 

Some stores and banks actively offer promotional zero-interest EMI offers. However, buyers should check the amount of the processing fee, discounts, and the total amount payable. 

The Neutral Part: EMI Is Not Always “Cheaper”

This must be the most important thing to remember.

EMI affects how you pay for something, but it does not change the total amount you pay.

Suppose you want a gadget worth ₹80,000.

If the purchase involves finance and charges, the total expenditure may be higher than ₹80,000.

Thus, you should not only ask the question:

“What is the EMI?” 

You must also ask: 

“What will be the total amount payable?”

This is particularly relevant in the case of premium smartphones, like an iPhone, which cost a lot.

The Risky Side of Easy EMI

The real worry is not EMI per se. It’s many purchases made on the premise that the monthly payment is within reach.

Take a customer who has:

• An EMI of ₹5,000 for their smartphone
• An EMI of ₹4,000 for their laptop
• An EMI of ₹3,000 on their credit card
• An EMI of ₹2,500 for their smartwatch

Each EMI can appear rationally affordable on its own.

However, summed up, it adds up to a total EMI repayment of ₹14,500.

And so, it is imperative that young and first-time buyers look at their total EMI repayment before going ahead and purchasing their next item at EMI.

5 Questions to Consider Before Buying a Gadget on EMI

1. Do I truly require this gadget? 

   The necessity for a new gadget for work purposes varies from buying the latest model of an already functional gadget.

2. What is the total amount to be paid back? 

   Don’t get distracted by the advertised monthly EMI amount.

3. Is it really no-cost EMI? 

   It’s important to check for processing fees and any other applicable charges while taking EMI.

4. For how long will I be using this gadget? 

   A lengthy repayment period may not be advisable because you may want to change the gadget very soon.

5. Will paying EMI deplete my savings? 

   Ensure that your EMI allows for enough money to cover your other expenses, savings requirement, and emergencies.

Is It a Good Idea to Purchase Gadgets Using EMI?

There is no one answer for all.

In case of a good product that fits your budget, EMI can be a viable payment method.

However, it pays to be careful when it comes to impulse purchases, otherwise the main attraction is simply a beholdingly low monthly payment.

The best way to do this is to compare:

Product pricing + EMI + Interest + Charges + Tenure + Final amount paid before making a purchase.

Platforms that help people figure out their borrowing options might be helpful here. For example, Loan Bazaar is a helpful resource for people looking online for loans.

And the point goes even further; the same principle works for any gadget financing, like smartphone financing in India, laptop financing, and another consumer finance option.Frequently asked questions: